Looking for somewhere you can enjoy a peaceful wander through verdant glades, or perhaps bring the whole family along for a day trip?
Spread across 8000 acres of Yorkshire countryside, Dalby Forest offers a truly fantastic experience for all ages – boasting 16 walking trails, eight of these routes being highly accessible and ideal for those looking for peace and tranquillity.
“Accessibility is a major priority for the future of Dalby Forest, crucial to ensuring that everybody can enjoy such a stunning part of the country,” explains Ed Woollard, Head of Recreation at Forestry England.
We chat to Ed about why the forest is such a fantastic place to visit for a short trek, a fun bike ride or even a bird song safari.
1. A cost effective outing for families
Whilst we all continue to watch the pennies, you can still enjoy your weekends without worrying about your spending. For just £10 per vehicle, you get access to Dalby Forest for an entire day.
“It’s a common misconception that its £10 per person to spend the day here, when in fact it's just £10 per vehicle in the car park,” reveals Ed. “You could pack the whole family or a group of friends in the car, then spend the day exploring the forest for just £10!”
Currently, Dalby Forest contains 16 walking routes with one more to be announced soon. Each trail has its own character - from shorter walks ideal for those wanting a nice, easy stroll, to longer, steeper treks with breath-taking views at the summit.
2. Exciting activities, events and attractions
As well the variety of trails on offer, there are plenty of adventurous activities to get involved in at Dalby Forest. The Go Ape Treetop Adventure course is ideal for the whole family, complete with wobbly bridges, intricate crossings and the iconic zip wire finale.
“There’s a fantastic choice of activities for kids, such as the Gruffalo Orienteering course and the Zog activity trail,” shares Ed. “The Gruffalo course takes children through a fun navigational challenge, where they need to find 12 Gruffalo markers using a simple map.
“Whether you’re feeling competitive and want to race the clock, or just after an afternoon of easy fun, the Gruffalo course is the perfect family outing. If you’re after something a bit different, then the interactive Zog trail lets you hunt for golden stars with our favourite dragon using a free app and a trail pack.”
For those seeking relaxation and wonder, there are yoga classes at the activity centre, bird song safaris where you switch off and tune into intricate bird sounds, as well as stargazing events during the darker months.
3. Everyone is welcome at Dalby Forest
There can be physical challenges to overcome for people who aren’t as mobile, but accessibility at Dalby Forest is far more holistic in its approach. “Our approach considers all types of disability,” says Ed.
“We recognise the frustrations of those who have accessibility needs and we’ve put a great deal of effort into understanding and listening to the support that is needed to create a forest that’s suitable for everyone. We want everyone to enjoy what Dalby Forest has to offer so we have developed 7 accessible trails, purchased mobility scooters and trampers for those off-road adventures and worked with our on-site partners to ensure everyone’s needs are catered for.”
4. Cosy cafés with a wide selection of tasty dishes
After a long hard day of discovering grandfather oak trees and clambering through treetops, there’s nothing better than a warm toastie and a cup of tea. The Dalby Forest Café has a delicious selection of hot and cold drinks, sweet treats and a full menu of both hot and cold foods.
“The Forest café is perfect for a bite to eat and a coffee to reinvigorate you after a long trek,” explains Ed. “There’s also a courtyard café which provides a true, hearty Yorkshire breakfast with ingredients sourced from the local area.”
5. Everything you need close to hand
There’s no need to worry about finding a place to park or finding a bike at short notice. The facilities at the forest have everything you need within a relatively short distance.
“We have a main car park close to the visitor centre but there’s plenty of other sites throughout the forest,” says Ed. “We also have a bike shop where you can choose from a full range of bikes to rent, and there’s plenty of advice on the best spots to whizz around on two wheels!”
For more information about days out at Dalby Forest, visit forestryengland.uk/dalby-forest or call 01751 460295.
